USVI COVID-19 Update: Rate of New Infections Subsides Slightly

New confirmed COVID-19 infections subsided a little over the weekend in the U.S. Virgin Islands even as the virus killed the 15th resident on Sunday. There were five new cases from Sunday to Monday, five from Saturday to Sunday and 11 from Friday to Saturday, according to the V.I. Department of Health’s daily update.

The territory saw more than 20 new cases every day for several days prior to that, and much higher levels just two weeks ago.

The total positive test results now stand at 1,139 for the territory. Actual cases are higher, as not every infected person shows symptoms or is tested.

St. Croix and St. John saw zero new cases from Sunday to Monday, one case from Saturday to Sunday and one case from Friday to Saturday.

Two weeks ago, St. Thomas was seeing more than 20 new cases every day and reported 50 new cases from Aug. 20 to 21.

Because lots of things can affect any single day’s results, the Health Department tracks a seven-day rolling average of the percentage of test results coming back positive. This evens out day-to-day variations.

That graph has been showing a downward trend.

Seven day running average of positive COVID-19 test results as of Aug. 31. (Department of Health image)
A seven-day running average of positive COVID-19 test results as of Aug. 31. (Department of Health image)

As of Monday evening, the total number of Virgin Islanders tested for COVID-19 was 16,397, an increase of 147 in a day, with 1,139 positive tests and 15,248 negatives.

Risk factors for transmission of the virus are:
Community transmission – 361 cases
Close contact – 537 cases
Travel – 84 cases
Still under investigation – 147 cases

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, people with COVID-19 have presented a wide range of symptoms reported – from mild to severe. Symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus.

People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
– Fever or chills
– Cough
– Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
– Fatigue
– Muscle or body aches
– Headache
– New loss of taste or smell
– Sore throat
– Congestion or runny nose
– Nausea or vomiting
– Diarrhea

Editor’s note: The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs has provided the following cellphone numbers where residents can report activity that is against the law, including violations of the governor’s executive orders, that may put others at risk or in danger. Information, photos or videos can be texted to the following: The general number is 340-725-5129. The other two numbers are 340-727-7226 on St. Croix and 340-771-7226 on St. Thomas. You can also call 911 to report serious crimes.

Location of positive COVID-19 test results on St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix as of August 31. (Department of Health image)